Vancouver—The 9-month period of human
fetal development sets the stage for an individual's start in life. It may
also have profound effects on long-term health.

Even so, people often do not know even the most basic facts about their
mother's pregnancy or simple data such as their birth weight. Yet this knowledge
may give valuable insight into susceptibilities and health concerns throughout
childhood and into adult years as well.

Because of this, scientists and physicians should keep records of such
information and use it for research and clinical purposes, explained Judith
Hall, MD, of the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, during the recent
annual meeting of the Teratology Society.